Governor Proclaims Necrotizing Fasciitis Awareness Month 2021

WHEREAS, necrotizing fasciitis is a serious bacterial skin infection that spreads quickly and kills the body’s soft tissue; accurate diagnosis, prompt antibiotic treatment, and surgery are important in stopping this infection as it can be deadly in a very short amount of time; and

WHEREAS, necrotizing fasciitis is an uncommon clinical disease, but has attracted a high profile within popular media where it is often referred to as the flesh-eating bug or virus; and

WHEREAS, the most common causes of the disease are the bacteria group A hemolytic, Streptococcus pyogenes and Staphylococcus aureus, either alone or in combination; other cases are reported to be caused by other types of bacteria including those naturally found within the intestines of healthy individuals; and

WHEREAS, in rare occasions, the infection can also occur following minor injuries to the skin from falls, cuts, or tears; and

WHEREAS, necrotizing fasciitis can occur in any age group, although sometimes there are precipitating factors; it is most commonly associated with surgical procedures, but may be seen in those with diabetes mellitus, atherosclerotic vascular disease, malignancy, and hypertension; and

WHEREAS, while progress has been made in understanding the symptoms and better diagnosing the disease, there is still much to learn about necrotizing fasciitis; with increased research, the goals of discovering the cause, improving treatment, and finding a cure are attainable;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim May, 2021, as “NECROTIZING FASCIITIS AWARENESS MONTH” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.